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Elementary Parent - Student Handbook 2019- 2020 Page 1

Contents Welcome ................................................................................................................................................. 5

Ajial Administrative Team ................................................................................................................... 6

Kindergarten Department ................................................................................................................ 6

Elementary Department ................................................................................................................... 6

Middle/High School Department ..................................................................................................... 6

AJIAL VISION/ MISSION/ CORE BELIEFS .................................................................................................. 7

Ajial Vision ......................................................................................................................................... 7

Ajial Mission Statement ...................................................................................................................... 7

Core Beliefs ........................................................................................................................................ 7

School Wide Learner Outcomes (ESLR) ............................................................................................ 7

Student Admission Policies ..................................................................................................................... 9

Re-enrollment Criteria ........................................................................................................................ 9

Payment of Tuition and Fees .............................................................................................................. 9

Late registration (late enrollment) ..................................................................................................... 10

Withdrawal from School ....................................................................................................................... 11

Governance ........................................................................................................................................... 12

Student Class Assignment ................................................................................................................. 12

Parents & Visitors Policy ....................................................................................................................... 12

General expectations from visitors are: ............................................................................................ 12

Parent violates the school policy or insults any staff member: ......................................................... 13

OVERVIEW OF ELEMENTARY PROGRAMS AND SCHEDULE .................................................................. 13

Fast ForWord .................................................................................................................................... 14

Language Support Unit (LSU) .......................................................................................................... 14

Character Education program (Ajialuna) .......................................................................................... 14

The use of English and Arabic Language ......................................................................................... 15

Tutoring/Academic Support Club ..................................................................................................... 15

School Day Schedule: ............................................................................................................................ 15

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS ...................................................................................................................... 15

School Arrival and Departure ........................................................................................................... 15

Student Snack / Lunch .......................................................................................................................... 16

Student Attendance and Tardy Policy ................................................................................................... 16

Attendance guidelines ....................................................................................................................... 16

Absences ........................................................................................................................................... 17


Daily unexcused absences law: ......................................................................................................... 17

Regulations of medical reports (sick reports) ................................................................................... 18

Tardy ..................................................................................................................................................... 18

Tardiness: .......................................................................................................................................... 18

Early Dismissals Policy .................................................................................................................... 19

Absence with Prior Arrangements ........................................................................................................ 20

Truancy: ............................................................................................................................................ 20

Absenteeism from Assessments ........................................................................................................ 21

Students off campus ............................................................................................................................. 21

Home and School Communication ....................................................................................................... 21

Parent and Teacher Conferences (PTC’s) .............................................................................................. 22

Progress Reports / Communication with Parents ................................................................................. 24

Communication Book/Diaries .......................................................................................................... 24

PLUS PORTAL ................................................................................................................................ 24

Contacting Teachers .......................................................................................................................... 24

Dress Code ............................................................................................................................................ 25

Consequences for students’ uniform infractions: .............................................................................. 26

Hairstyles .......................................................................................................................................... 26

General information ............................................................................................................................. 26

I. Use of Office Phones ..................................................................................................................... 26

II. Personal Electronic Devices .......................................................................................................... 26

III. Mobile Phone Policy and Procedures ....................................................................................... 26

IV. Deliveries ................................................................................................................................... 27

V. Emergency Procedures ................................................................................................................. 27

VI. Textbooks .................................................................................................................................. 27

VII. Gymnasium Rules ...................................................................................................................... 27

VIII. Elevator Use .............................................................................................................................. 28

P.E. and SWIMMING ............................................................................................................................. 28

Ajial Swimming Pool Rules and Regulations ................................................................................... 28

Playgrounds Rules ................................................................................................................................. 29

Student safety outside school (family violence) ................................................................................... 30

Student Behavioral Expectations and Discipline ................................................................................... 30

Bullying .................................................................................................................................................. 30


Damage to Property .............................................................................................................................. 31

Computer / Internet Use ....................................................................................................................... 31

Student Behavioral Expectations and Discipline ................................................................................... 32

Discipline Guidelines ............................................................................................................................. 32

Hitting other student either by hand or object .................................................................................... 32

Bringing Unauthorized Toys to School .................................................................................................. 33

Programs and Services .......................................................................................................................... 33

Orientation/ Open House .................................................................................................................. 33

Tutoring / Academic Support Club ................................................................................................... 33

Counseling Department .................................................................................................................... 33

Grades ................................................................................................................................................... 34

Evaluation of Students’ Progress .......................................................................................................... 34

Homework............................................................................................................................................. 34

Grading .................................................................................................................................................. 35

Grading Guidelines ................................................................................................................................ 35

Elementary Grading Scale ..................................................................................................................... 36

Prohibition of Punitive Practices in Grading ......................................................................................... 36

Academic Standards .............................................................................................................................. 36

Standardized Tests ................................................................................................................................ 36

Measures of Academic Progress Examinations (MAP) ......................................................................... 37

School Clinic .......................................................................................................................................... 37

Healthy Eating and Food ....................................................................................................................... 38

Birthday Parties and Bringing Cakes and Other Food Items ................................................................. 38

STUDENT ACTIVITIES ............................................................................................................................. 39

Student After-School Clubs .............................................................................................................. 39

School Annual Events ....................................................................................................................... 39

Field Trips ......................................................................................................................................... 39

STUDENT RECOGNITION ....................................................................................................................... 39

Special Recognition Assemblies ....................................................................................................... 39

Special Awards ................................................................................................................................. 39

Academic Probation .......................................................................................................................... 40

At Risk/Academic Warning .............................................................................................................. 40

Academic Hold ................................................................................................................................. 40


Behavioral Hold ................................................................................................................................ 40

Exit List ............................................................................................................................................. 40


Welcome Dear Parent

Thank you for choosing Ajial Bilingual School for your child/children to learn and grow

academically and as individuals. On behalf of the staff, it is my pleasure to welcome you to

Ajial Bilingual School and invite you to become a partner in your child’s education. Our

conscientious staff works hard to meet the needs of each student and understands that

communication to parents is critical in order for our students to succeed. School and parents

working together help students to achieve their educational goals.

As partners, we share the responsibility for our children’s success and want you to know that

we will do our very best to carry out our responsibilities. We ask that you guide and support

your child’s learning by ensuring that he/she:

1) Attends school daily and arrives on time, ready for the day’s learning experience

2) Completes all homework assignments given by teachers

3) Reads daily to develop a love for reading and to improve literacy skills

4) Shares school experiences with you so that you are aware of his/her school life

5) Informs you if he/she needs additional support in any area or subject

6) Knows that you expect him/her to succeed in school and go on to higher education.

7) Shows respect to classmate and faculty, by practicing good behavior at all times.

The following information will help you and your child/children to understand some of the

policies and procedures for the school in order for the year to move forward in a positive

way.

School policies and procedures are subject to change. If and when changes are made the

handbook will be amendments. The amendments will be sent home to parents and students

will be notified of the amendments.

We will continue to work hard to build a culture of respect, responsibility, and academic

success.

With Regards,

Elementary Administration Team and Staff


Ajial Administrative Team Fahed Al- Jeri Administration Supervisor

Kindergarten Department

Linda Walters Fatemah Reekan

KG Principal KG Vice Principal

Mona Hussain KG Secretary Amal Hosni KG Counselor Hanan Al Sayed KG Arabic & Islamic Leader

Elementary Department

Linda Walters Elementary Principal Emy De Lilla Elementary Vice Principal Altaff Al-Fadly Elementary Secretary Enas Naser Elementary Counselor Abdul Wahab Al-Sayed Arabic H.O.D Evan Moustafa Islam H.O.D

Middle/High School Department

Sarrah Al-Gharabally Middle/High School Principal Tamer Al-Sayed Suzann Al-Othman Nesma Ibrahim

Middle/High School Vice Principal Middle School Vice Principal Middle/High School Secretary

Faiza Mohammed MHS Counselor Mustafa Abdo MHS Counselor Maria Stephens High School Career Guidance Counselor Mohammad Tawakol Middle/High School Discipline Officer (Boys) Ameera Eid Middle/High School Discipline Officer (Girls) Abdul Wahab Al-Sayed Arabic H.O.D Evan Moustafa Islam H.O.D Susanna King Curriculum Coordinator Niveen Samad Activities Coordinator


AJIAL VISION/ MISSION/ CORE BELIEFS

Ajial Vision

Ajial will be a widely respected bilingual educational institution and a model of

Academic excellence, focusing on the provision of 21st-century skills.

Ajial Mission Statement

Provide an excellent college preparatory education that promotes academic and

linguistic proficiency in Arabic and English.

Promote self-discovery and inquiry-based learning that inspires students to be

confident, critical thinkers and lifelong learners who take pride in their cultural and

religious heritage.

Challenge and support our students to become successful and responsible global

citizens, committed to the service of the community in which they live.

Employ and retain multinational, qualified and skilled employees who create a safe,

nurturing, collaborative and individualized, structured learning environment.

Develop successful partnerships between the school and its families that support

communication, teaching, and learning.

Core Beliefs

The Ajial Board is obliged to support the school in ensuring its stated Vision, Mission

and Core Beliefs are realized.

The Ajial Community must robustly promote a sense of global citizenship whilst

Instilling Islamic values and Kuwaiti culture.

High expectations are held for all students, faculty and staff.

Frequent assessment and analysis of teaching and learning data support student

progress, curriculum innovation, and development.

A strong professional teaching and learning culture exemplified by trust, collaboration

and commitment from faculty and staff members is required.

A strong, constructive relationship must exist between the school and its families,

which will play a positive and significant role in determining student success in

school and life.

School Wide Learner Outcomes (ESLR)

Ajial students will be:

1 -21st-century learners equipped with lifelong learning skills that allow the individual

to adapt to circumstances regardless of magnitude.

Descriptors


1- Continually assess, evaluate and adjust their work, using technology where

appropriate

2- Demonstrate technological literacy

3- Are able communicators

4- Are able collaborators

5- Are self-motivated learners, who practice inquiry-based learning

6- Able to analyze relevant data and develop suitable conclusions

7- Able to use critical thinking skills to solve complex problems

2 - Global citizens, with a strong sense of social conscience in any cultural setting.

Descriptors

1- Are honest and principled (ethical).

2- Demonstrate awareness and respect for the rights of others, interacting responsibly

and purposefully in all cultural settings.

3- Seek to improve the lives of others.

4- Demonstrate care and concern for the environment.

5- Support the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.

3 – Communicators who have listening, speaking, reading, writing, IT, and media skills

to effectively communicate in an appropriate and ethical manner.

Descriptors

1- Understand the audience that the communication concerns.

2- Incorporate/utilize technology as a communication tool.

3- Demonstrate wise judgment and ethical consideration when communicating,

especially so with social media.

4- Ask questions in a considerate manner listen carefully and process information in a

logical and unbiased manner.

5- Are multilingual.

4 - Collaborators, who function successfully in formal or informal group settings.

Descriptors

1- Able to show respect and recognize the rights of others.

2- Possess strong interpersonal skills.

3- Strive to accept and appreciate different points of view.

4- Prepared to lead or follow as circumstances dictate.

5- Are communicators.

6- Use logic/reason to make decisions and emotion that is regulated.

5 – Able to carry into the world the legacy and values of the Muslim faith.


Descriptors

1. Students will know and understand the life and teaching of Allah as reflected in

the beliefs of the Quran (5 pillars of Islam).

2. Participate in Muslim service and embrace its values, fostering a sense of

community that includes an understanding of justice, compassion and respect for

the diversity of others as citizens of the global community.

3. Attend prayer consistently, especially so during school hours.

Student Admission Policies

Admission procedures and guidelines:

Admission and re-enrollment in Ajial takes place every year according to an official

announcement from the School Administration.

Admission procedures and guidelines are available from the Admission’s Office.

Re-enrollment Criteria

The student is not on the Academic Probation List

The student is not on the Behavior Probation List

Good home support is evident.

The student has a good attendance record.

Parents should visit the Registration Department to complete the re-enrollment form

and pay the KD l00/- re-enrollment fee.

Only completion of the form and the payment secure a place for a child during the

determined re-enrollment period.

The school is not under any obligation to re-enroll students who miss the re-enrollment dates,

and according to the Ministry of Private Education policies, will no longer be considered

Ajial students.

Students may be placed on a Waiting List when all seats in a grade level are full, which will

place Siblings (brothers and sisters) of enrolled students first, then open to extended family

members (cousins) and finally, to any new registration applications.

Payment of Tuition and Fees

AJIAL reserves the right to withhold a report card due to tuition fees, lost textbooks, and / or

library book fines unpaid. Once the payment has been made and there is a receipt of proof of

settling the account, the report card will be given to the family. Please note that the Tuition

Fee due dates are listed in the school’s financial policy signed by parents as a required

document for re-enrollment.


Late registration (late enrollment)

Student, who enrolled from September 1st or after, shall pay the tuition fees in full.

Student, who enrolled from second semester, shall pay 50% of the tuition fees.

Age Requirement: Ministry of Education age requirements.

Grade Level Age Requirement

Pre-K 2 years 8 months

KG1 3 years 6 months

KG2 4 years 6 months

Grade 1 5 years 6 months

Documents requirements for registration:

- 6 recent photographs (4x6 sizes).

- A photocopy of student's Birth Certificate and Vaccination card.

- Complete Health file from Kuwait Ministry of Health (If the student transferred from

another school the student's health file must be brought from the school previously

attended)

- Health Files must be submitted to the registration before a student is allowed to

attend classes as per the Ministry of Health requirement

- A photocopy of the student's and both Parents/Guardians Civil ID card.

- A photocopy of the Father's Nationality Certificate (for Kuwaitis).

- A photocopy of the Student's Passport for all students (with Residency page for non-

Kuwaitis).

- A photocopy of the Father’s Passport (with Residency page for non-Kuwaitis).

- The Last Transcript or Report Card showing the student's status (Pass/ Fail) from the

schools previously attended (If the student transferred from another school) from

inside or outside Kuwait.

- In divorced circumstances, submit the Custody Certificate.

- In circumstances where one parent may have passed away, submit the Death

Certificate.

- Complete student's file (If the student transferred from another school the student's

file must be brought from the school previously attended)

- Transfer Certificate from the school previously attended (If the student transferred

from another school in Kuwait)

- Clearance Certificate from the school previously attended (If the student transferred

from another school in Kuwait)

- Note: - Registration is prohibited without valid residence.

Children of Stateless Residents


Registration of students (children of Stateless residents) depends on the following conditions: - A valid Security Card for the student and guardian or a valid service card for the guardian - The original Birth Certificate or a letter from the Cases and Claims Committee stating that the

guardian is on the procedure to obtain the birth certificate and proof of descent.

- Registration is open for the following categories until the end of January 2020

- The new student from outside Kuwait must bring the passport to check the date of entry into

the country, not later than one month from the date of entry. Student’s academic certificate is

certified by the Embassy of the State of Kuwait and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the

country that student came from.

- Only students who have entered the country as a family member only are allowed to be

registered.

- Provided that two months have elapsed from the date of entry to complete the residence

procedures.

Withdrawal from School In case of withdrawal, the following procedures shall apply:

Following the Ministry of Private Education guidelines, the 100 KD. - registration fee is

nonrefundable.

Student who withdraw from Day 1 of the school year until October 31 shall pay 30%

of the tuition fees. Registration fee excluded.

Student who withdraw from November 1stuntil end of first semester shall pay 50% of

the tuition fees. Registration fee excluded.

Student, who withdraw from first day in second semester or after, shall pay the tuition

fees in full.

Parents are requested to inform the school during the pre-registration process for the

next year of their intent to withdraw their child.

If withdrawal is to occur during the school year, written notification of intent to

withdraw a student from AJIAL should be given to Ajial Admission Office, at least,

two weeks prior to the date of withdrawal.

Upon notification, all applicable administrative and office staff regarding the exiting

student and their departure date.

These documents will include past school records such as a student’s report cards and

standardized test scores.

Exit / transfer documents will not be released until the student has completed the

checkout process and has returned all textbooks / workbooks, library books, and other

materials belonging to the school.

All tuition fees, plus any fees for lost or damaged textbooks and library materials, will

have to be paid in full before exit documents are issued to the parents.


Governance

Student Class Assignment Careful consideration is taken to create balanced classrooms with consideration of

behavioral, social and academic abilities of the class as a whole, and input from

Teachers, Counselor, Vice Principal and Principal. All class lists are finalized and

approved by the Vice Principal and Principal.

NO PERSONAL REQUESTS OR PREFERENCES WILL BE ACCEPTED

UNLESS EXPRESSLY RELATED TO THE COUNSELOR RECORDS FOR

THE CONCERNED STUDENT

The Department Level Principal reserves the right to approve any change that is

deemed necessary.

Parents & Visitors Policy

General expectations from visitors are:

Parents or Visitors to Ajial are welcome to the main entrance, Gate 2, to receive a

Visitor’s Pass to attend any school business

Submit Civil ID to receive a Visitor’s Pass

Do not interfere with any school activity during the visit.

Follow the school’s established procedures for scheduling an appointment through the

Department Secretary with the teacher(s) and / or Principal / Counselor after the class,

if needed (This can be through the Receptionist, by email request, or phone call to the

Reception Desk)

Visitors should remain in the reception area until escorted by admin staff or

department secretary to appointments

Return the Visitor’s Pass to the point of origin before leaving the campus

Adults and minors who enter Ajial and fail to adhere to the posted “Visitor’s Policy”

may be reported to the appropriate School authority and may be subject to sanctions

agreed by the School administration

Parents are not allowed to go to classrooms

Parents need to follow school rules and regulations when they speak to, or in their

treatment of teachers or admin staff.

If the parents are not following the required rules, their student may be suspended or

removed from the school, as per Ministry of Private Education policy.


Parent violates the school policy or insults any staff member:

1- A- If the parent (father or mother) exceeds speaking improperly to any of academic or

administrative staff or students or visitors, without assault, defamation or libel, a pledge of

non-repetition shall be signed to preserve the student's continuity in the school.

B- If the parent (father or mother) at the second time exceeds speaking improperly to any

of academic or administrative staff or students or visitors, without assault, defamation or

libel, a pledge of non-repetition shall be signed to preserve the student's continuity in the

school.

C- If this is exceeded for the third time, it is prohibited to re-enroll the student for the next

academic year.

2- A- In the event that (the mother) exceeds speaking improperly to any of academic or

administrative staff or students or visitors, without assault, defamation, the legal guardian

(the father) is summoned to sign a pledge of non-repetition to preserve the student's

continuity in the school.

B- In the event that (the mother) for the second time exceeds speaking improperly to any of

academic or administrative staff or students or visitors, without assault or defamation, the

legal guardian, (the father), is summoned to sign a pledge of non-repetition in order to

preserve the student's continuity in the school.

The mother will be prevented from any further dealing with the academic or administrative

staff.

C- In the case of the mother dealing with academic or administrative staff or the attempt to

abuse the staff, the necessary legal action will be taken.

3- If the parent (father or mother) exceeds speaking improperly or continues abusive

behavior to any academic or administrative staff, or students or visitors, all legal proceeding

will be taken and the student will be suspended from school, and the Ministry of Private

Education will be addressed to request the transfer of the student to another school.

OVERVIEW OF ELEMENTARY PROGRAMS AND SCHEDULE

• The Ajial Bilingual School offers programs within the elementary school that are based on

sound educational principles and practices. Many of the programs, materials, and techniques

used at Ajial have been adopted from successful U.S. and international based curricula. The

school strives to provide the best educational opportunities and experiences for the students,

and every effort is made to meet individual needs and interests and to ensure that high self-

esteem is maintained in each student.

• By providing a caring and supportive classroom environment, the students are encouraged

to develop independence, a respect for others and a sense of responsibility for themselves. By

working both independently and in cooperative groups, our boys and girls develop life-long

learning skills. The curriculum emphasizes traditional disciplines, including English language


arts (e.g. English usage, writing, etc.), Arabic, Islamic studies, math, social studies, science,

computers, and physical fitness and health.

• As the students’ progress from the lower elementary grades (1-2) to the intermediate

(grades 3-5), they continue to meet the challenges of a stimulating and expansive curriculum.

They are provided with an understanding of the world in which they live and with the tools

for future success. The concepts introduced in the primary grades are further developed and

new concepts and skills are introduced. New ideas are explored and creative solutions to

problems are encouraged. Children learn appropriate work habits and become independent

and responsible students.

• Though the primary language of instruction is English, Arabic is taught as part of the

regular curriculum and is the language of instruction for Religion and Social Studies. The

periods per week vary with each grade level.

Fast ForWord

In order to assist those students whose English skills are below grade-level standards, the

school offers an English Language Resource Program known as Fast ForWord, which

focuses on language, reading, and grammar. This program is utilized for grades 1-5.

However, it should be noted that this program provides limited instruction and is not meant to

replace a professional after-school remedial program.

Language Support Unit (LSU)

The school also offers LSU classes for those students who need additional help. LSU teachers

work with students in small groups who require extra English language grammar and writing

support.

Character Education program (Ajialuna)

This program aims to:

Modify students’ behavior from an Islamic perspective in an educational way.

The program focuses on promoting the Islamic values and principles of the students that

suites their age level.

The program is divided into two main sections:

Psychological assets and social rights for the KG and Elementary levels.

Character education is integrated into the general curriculum for grades 1-5. Children,

through a variety of teaching strategies, learn to explore their world and develop a love of

learning that lasts a lifetime. Students are encouraged to utilize critical thinking and problem-

solving skills. It is our goal to maximize each child’s potential and to prepare them for their

role in an ever-changing global community.


The use of English and Arabic Language

All subjects are conducted in English at Ajial, except for Arabic, Islam, Arabic Social Studies

and Ajialuna classes. English is only spoken in the English based subjects. This will promote

and improve fluency.

Tutoring/Academic Support Club

Ajial expects all students to meet grade level standards. The teachers and counselors work

hard with students to provide academic services and enhancement programs.

Any academic support needs to be addressed through the respective school departments

counselor, as per the school’s rules and regulations.

Parents seeking additional academic support may contact the school at any time for

advice.

The school provides a number of after school tutoring options and the Activities

Coordinator may be contacted for information.

School Day Schedule:

SUNDAY –WEDNESDAY Kindergarten, 7:15 a.m.– 1:00 p.m. Elementary and Middle/ High School, 7:15 a.m. – 2:25 p.m.

THURSDAY Kindergarten, 7:15 a.m. – 12:10 p.m. Elementary and Middle/High School, 7:15 a.m.– 12:20 p.m.

Students must attend all the classes for the full school day.7:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. The

School’s main office is open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Sunday to Thursday.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

School Arrival and Departure

Students are able to begin “Early Arrival” to the boys and girls playgrounds from 6:30

a.m. by way of Gates (1) Girls and (3) Boys respectively

Girls’ Drop-off from 7:00-7:15 a.m. will also include Gate (6)

From 7:15 a.m., Students go to classes and all other visitors will kindly exit the

playground areas

To facilitate faster flow of students from 7:15 a.m., Gates (1) Girls, and Gate (3) Boys

will remain open to allow arriving Students Only. Students must swipe the Student

I.D. Pass and register their arrival to school and move directly to their classrooms

(PLEASE ENSURE YOUR CHILD HAS THEIR STUDENT I.D. AT ALL TIMES)

From 7:15 a.m.-7:30 a.m. swiped passes will record as “Ëxcused Late”

From 7:31 a.m. swiped passes count towards “Unexcused Tardies”


Students arriving after 9:15 a.m. without proof of a medical excuse or unattended by a

parent, will not be allowed to enter class and counted as a day's unexcused absence.

Parents will be contacted by the respective Department

Student Dismissal will open Gates 1 and 6 for Girls, and Gates 3 and 4 for Boys

All late leaving, or tutored students will be collected from Reception, where they will

wait under staff supervision

Student Snack / Lunch Students have snack / lunch in their classroom. Students may bring food for both snack and

lunch. Teachers will check the nutritional value of the food being sent to school with the

students.

Students in Grades 1-5 may receive lunch from our school cafeteria by utilizing our order

placement system. Food and beverages will be available through order placement from the

cafeteria, except during Ramadan.

We ask you NOT to send candy with your child. Drinks in bottles or tins are not allowed, nor

fizzy (carbonated) drinks. Instead, provide healthy snacks for them to eat such as fruit,

granola bars, vegetables, and juice or water to drink. Students are encouraged to bring water

bottles to school for consumption during both breaks and class time.

Students should remain in the designated areas of the school during lunchtime. Students are

responsible for cleaning up papers, bags, drink and food containers, leftover food, etc., after

lunch /break and before returning to scheduled classes. At no time are students allowed in

out-of-bounds areas.

Student Attendance and Tardy Policy

Attendance guidelines

Every student must arrive at school before the official start of the school day. No student will

be allowed to leave the school before the official end of the school day, except in special

circumstances and with the approval of the Administration (principal, vice principal).

School Day Schedule

SUNDAY –WEDNESDAY Kindergarten, 7:15 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Elementary and Middle/ High School, 7:15 a.m. – 2:25 p.m.

THURSDAY

Kindergarten, 7:15 a.m. – 12:10 p.m.

Elementary 7:15 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.

Middle/High School, 7:15 a.m. – 12:25 p.m.

Students must attend all the classes for the full school day


Absences

All absences from school must be explained in writing (parent letter or doctor’s note) and received within three days of the student returning to school. Reasons presented after three days will not be accepted, and the absence deemed unexcused. Reasons presented for a student’s absence will be confirmed or rejected by the Administration (principal or vice principal).

Absence from any class without an acceptable excuse is considered absence for the whole school day.

If a student exceeds 6 days’ absences in any class, the student will be placed on Academic Probation.

If the following criterion is met while the student is on probation, they will receive credit for the course.

1. Excellent attendance 2. Punctual for all classes 3. Demonstrate a commitment to academic work

*Written notification and warning about a student’s unexcused absence will be given to the parents as follows:

A long term absence is when a student is absent for more than 5 days in a row. Long term

absences have to follow the same procedure for an excused absence and prior approval is

necessary from the Principal or the Vice Principal.

When students are absent from school, it has a negative impact on their grades. If a student

misses graded classwork, homework, or assessments because of an absence, they will receive

a grade of zero “0”. This grade of zero “0” will only be changed when the student makes up

the work. Make up work will only be accepted with an excused absent.

If the student’s absence exceeds 15 days in one continuous absence or from several different

occasions without an acceptable excuse in one semester, the student can be expelled or exited

from the school (absent policy as per Ministry of Education).

Daily unexcused absences law:

Unexcused absences daily procedures

After 3 days 1st warning to the student, the administrative supervisor will notify the

parent/guardian of the students absence and parent will sign that they have been

informed.

After 6 days 2nd warning to the student, the administrative supervisor will notify the

parent/guardian of the absence of the student and consequences, and parent will

sign that they have been informed.

After nine days If the absence is unexcused, the student will be prohibited from entering the

Final examination in all subjects and the parent/guardian will be informed.

If the days are not consecutive, the counselor will inform the parent/guardian


after reviewing the situation and explain the consequences, which will be signed

by the parent/guardian as having been informed.

Regulations of medical reports (sick reports)

Medical leave must be taken and approved by the school. The school will not accept medical after three days of absence. In the case of absences exceeded three medical reports during the semester, the

medical report must be stamped by the school health clinic if it is from a private hospital. If it is from a public hospital report must be stamped by the doctor and the administrator, otherwise the school will not accept it and it will be unexcused.

Tardy Students are expected to arrive at school no later than 7:15 a.m.

All Students are escorted to their classrooms by Homeroom Teachers at 7:15 a.m.

A student is tardy when arriving at school after 7:15 a.m.to register the student as present on campus.

Students arriving after 7:30 a.m. will have Late Arrival recorded in the Attendance System and applied to their report card and participation grade

Students who arrive from 7:15 a.m. must swipe their Student ID to receive a late slip

before going to the class. Students arriving after 7:30 a.m. will enter through the

Reception Area to swipe their ID card and must present the Late Slip to the Class

Teacher.

Tardiness:

If the student is late, coming after 7:30, the following procedure will be applied:

1. The student is required to swipe their ID badge to generate a tardy slip. The

official documentation to support the tardy will be presented to the teacher with

the tardy slip.

2. If the student does not have their ID badge, the Reception will document their

arrival and issue them a tardy slip, through use of Bar Code Register only one

time, and any additional times with missing IDs will result in the parent being

contacted to pay to replace the ID card.

3. Tardy slips are to be given to the teacher and stored for a final tally at the end of

the week.

After 3 tardies, the department secretary will call parents to inform them of the

lateness.

After 5 tardies, a warning letter will be sent home, to be returned to school with a

parent signature.


After 8 tardies a meeting will be held between the parents and administration. A

commitment letter will be created and signed by all parties involved.

Notes:

1- Students are responsible for missed work / assignments, through their Microsoft 365

accounts

2- If students arrive late to an assessment, missed time will not be compensated.

3- If the assessment period is missed, the student will have to reschedule a make-up

assessment, with permission from the administration. The time of the make-up

assessment will be at the convenience of the administering teacher, not during class

time.

4- The administration reserves the right to take the proper procedure according to the

individual situation.

Early Dismissals Policy

o Parents who wish to request early leave, must bring a medical

appointment card or doctor’s form (original not copy) to school for

approval. It is preferable that such requests be submitted 24 hours in

advance. The request must state the date, time, and reason for the

dismissal. Parent verification will occur before a student is allowed to

leave. If at all possible, medical appointments should be scheduled before

or after school.

o Students excused early shall be collected from class by the Department

secretary after the Principal signs the Permission to Leave Campus form.

This form will then be signed by the parent or guardian and turned over

to the security desk before leaving campus. This necessitates that the

parent or guardian enter the Main Reception to collect the student for

early departure.

o Parents must contact the school for early release, even when sending a

driver. Maids and drivers are not allowed to request student Early Leave.

For the protection of students, early release will only occur from campus

after contact has been made with a parent or guardian and an

administrator has signed the exit form.

If a student shows a pattern of excessive early departures, the early departure

may be denied. Early departures follow the same guidelines outlined in the

attendance policy herein. Therefore, early departures affect the absence count

for the missed classes. It is strongly advised that students are not taken on days

when Tests/ Projects are scheduled as it may mean a loss of a grade that is

connected to a Class Work Grade.


Students with excessive unexcused absences and/or early leaves (4 or more

per quarter) will not be considered for Principal Honor roll. Students with 8 or

more unexcused absences and/or early leaves per quarter will not be

considered for Honor Roll.

Absence with Prior Arrangements Ajial Bilingual School strongly emphasizes complying with the dates specified in the school

calendar.

Where absenteeism is absolutely unavoidable the following procedures must be followed:

1. A letter of request must be submitted to the Department Principal outlining reasons for the

absence. The expected duration, and departure date must be written to the school.

2. A Prior Arrangement Form will be issued from the Principal’s office to be presented by the

student to his/her teachers.

3. Teachers will state in writing on the Prior Arrangement Form student expectations and

possible consequences that would help minimize the potential harm to the student’s final

grade.

4. The responsibility for completion of all make-up requirements rests with the student.

5. Prior arrangement releases are not considered excused absences unless it is an emergency

or due to medical circumstances.

Truancy:

Attendance and punctuality are major criteria for re-enrolling at Ajial.

Thus, a student is considered truant if he or she:

1. Absence without the knowledge and consent of a parent, or skipping classes while on

campus. Skipping a class is an automatic suspension and the student and parent will

be required to sign a Behavior Probation Contract

2. Probation Contracts will be a considering factor when deciding if a student is allowed

to re-enroll.

I. The truant student is responsible for work missed on the day of the truancy, but he/she

will receive a grade of zero for tests/assignments missed.

Leaving school without permission or skipping a class will follow the same consequences as

truancy.


Absenteeism from Assessments

If a student is absent from an assessment for any reason, he/she must see the Department

Principal and must provide proper documentation. (Medical report or approval from the

Ministry of the Private Education)

Any student absents from school or who misses assignments will have the opportunity to

make up their missed work. Following the absences policy guidelines. Students who are not

on long term absences will have a two-week period to make up their work. Students who are

on an approved long term absence will have one month to make up missed work. Parents

should schedule a meeting with their child’s teacher to discuss how the missed work can be

made up.

Students off campus Ajial is a closed campus and for the safety of all, students are not allowed to leave campus

unsupervised during the school hours.

Parents are requested to follow the arrival and dismissal times for the school and should

assure that the students are not left alone outside the school campus. We consider this matter

to be a security issue.

If a student leaves campus for any reason, the school will suspend the student for 3 days and

parent must attend a meeting and sign commitment it will not happen again. The student

should avoid this situation to not jeopardize re-enrollment.

Home and School Communication

Questions or concerns about any aspect of student learning or achievement should first be

brought to the attention of the student’s homeroom teacher. If the question relates directly to

a specific subject or classroom issue, the subject teacher should be contacted directly outside

of instructional hours during the school day via an appointment.

The best way to contact the teacher is via e-mail or telephone. In the case of telephone, call

Ajial and leave a message with the receptionist with your name, contact information, and

purpose of the call. Calls to a teacher’s residence or cell phone are not permitted. Teacher e-

mail addresses can be found through the parent portal on the school’s website.

Each teacher’s first responsibility is to the students they are assigned to teach and supervise

each day. For this reason, a teacher may need up to a full day to respond to all e-mails and

phone calls. The school relies on the Ajial website, online newsletters home, phone calls, and

email in keeping parents up-to-date on information during the school year. Parents should

refer to the school's website for weekly newsletters. Here you will find important

information on upcoming events, special announcements, school calendar and weekly grade

level assessments. www.ajial.edu.kw


It is each parent’s responsibility to read all communications from the school in a timely

manner. Please make sure the school has a valid e-mail address for your family as well as

current telephone numbers.

In order to best serve our students and parents, please contact staff members in the

following order:

For academic & social concerns:

1. Homeroom Teacher

2. Grade Team Leader

3. Counselor

4. Administrators (Principal, Vice-Principal)

5. School Director

Medical concerns:

1. Homeroom Teacher

2. School Doctor

3. Administrator (Principal, Vice-Principal, Counselor)

4. School Director

Enrollment questions and concerns:

1. Registrar

2. Counselor

3. Administrator (Principal, Vice-Principal)

4. School Director

Financial

1. Account

Parent and Teacher Conferences (PTC’s) Parent teacher conferences are held twice a year and are included on the calendar. Parents

who wish to schedule additional conferences are encouraged to do so by emailing the teacher

directly or leaving a message with reception. All conferences with teachers (with the

exception of the scheduled parent- teacher conference times) should be arranged in advance.

It is inappropriate for parents to drop into a classroom unannounced for a conference,

particularly immediately before, during or after school hours when teachers are responsible

for other students and when confidentiality is difficult. Protecting academic instructional time

is of the upmost importance and will be placed before all other considerations. Teachers will

request parents contact them at another time to schedule a conference.


Both parents and teachers may request additional conferences throughout the school year by

scheduling meetings with the respective homeroom teachers, counselors, vice principal, or

principal. To do so, the parents must make an appointment with the teacher.


Progress Reports / Communication with Parents

Communication Book/Diaries

The home-school communication book and/or Plus Portal are developed to facilitate the

sharing of important information between the school and parents. The communication book

may include information about daily activities, special or fun events, homework, and other

expectations. It is imperative that this book is reviewed every day and is signed by the parent

when information is presented.

Written progress reports from teachers to parents may be sent at any time during the school

year.

Progress Reports are used by teachers to inform parents of student performance and behavior.

Teachers may also wish to phone or email parents directly, especially when circumstances

require discussion or clarification.

There will be two mid semester reports and two end of semester reports. The mid semester

reports will give each subject a number. There may also be a narrative. The end of semester

reports will give each subject a number. There will be a narrative as well.

Notification to parents on student progress and/or missing assignments:

• Teachers keep parents informed on an ongoing basis about the progress of students.

• Teachers contact the parents to arrange meetings to explore various options to help

the child improve in the weak subjects / areas.

PLUS PORTAL

Plus Portal is the official means of communication between parents, teachers, and administration.

Plus Portal is a part of the Rediker grading system. Class Dojo will NOT be permitted. as a way to communicate to parents.

Contacting Teachers

• The Homework Notebook and/ or Plus Portal are the best medium to communicate with the

teachers.

• Teacher communicates with parent in communication book, the parent works with the

teacher to correct the issue.

• Parents should contact the teachers first; Team Leaders/HOD’s second and then the Vice

Principals.


• All parents are strongly encouraged to contact their child’s teacher if they have any

questions or problems. Parents will make an appointment through the Administrative Support

Supervisor or the relevant school secretary to meet their child’s teacher(s).

• Teachers cannot be called to the telephone from their classroom or to meet with parents

without a previous appointment. Teachers set aside 2 periods a week for parent meetings.

• Parents may be assured a return call will be forthcoming from the school within 48 hours.

Dress Code All Ajial students are required to wear Ajial uniform in school at all times. The school

reserves the right to change or amend the dress code as it deems appropriate. Uniform

infractions will follow the discipline code. When a student is out of uniform, they will be

required to check in at the office every morning until the administrator determines there is

compliance.

The School uniform assists the staff in identifying our students. This is particularly

important for safety on the school campus and during field trips.

All students have been issued an Ajial Bilingual School identification badge and are

expected to wear this while in school. IT IS PART OF THE UNIFORM, as well as

needed to sign into school, or take out books from the library.

Note: School uniforms must be purchased from the Ajial Store located at the new

outdoor location inside the Boys’ Main Gate. Uniforms are available throughout the

school year.

All clothing must be of appropriate fit to ensure modesty.

Dress Restrictions: sandals, shoes with cleats on the soles, roller blade shoes, and / or

shoes with heels of 2 inches in height are not allowed.

Girls’ arms must be covered to the top of the elbow, blouses without sleeves are

not allowed at any school occasion. Skirts should reach the knee.

Jewelry and accessories are not to be worn at school with the exception of a watch

and a pair of small earrings (one stud in each earlobe) for the girls.

Girls are not allowed to wear make-up (including nail polish, and lipstick) on any

occasion.

Hijabs should be all one color of navy- blue, black, or white.

Caps and winter hats with bills should not be worn in school buildings.

Clothing decorated with ink marks, graffiti, decorative badges, holes or tattered edges

are not allowed.

Shoes, belts and other items should complement the dress code (navy blue or black)

and all other accessories should comply with the basic blue and white theme.


Consequences for students’ uniform infractions:

Note: In the first week all students will receive an oral warning by the classroom teacher

First Offense A written warning will be sent home for the parent to sign and return from the school.

Second Offense

Refer the student to the counselor or the Vice Principal to call parent and inform them the student will not be able to enter the class until he/she wears the school uniform.

Hairstyles

Hair should be well-groomed, conservatively styled, and appropriate for academic

purposes

Hair should be a natural color (no bright tinting, hi-lights, or streaks)

Girls’ hair combed/brushed and clean.

Boys’ hair length should be above the collar and a conservative length and style

befitting the expectations of the conservative school community (No Spiked hair or

lengths covering eyes or face)

General information

I. Use of Office Phones Office phones are not for student use. However, in the case of an emergency, students may use an office phone with permission from the office secretary. Violation of office telephone usage will result in disciplinary consequences.

II. Personal Electronic Devices Electronic devices, such as IPads, mobile phones, smart watches and games, are not

permitted to be seen or used on campus unless required for a class. This means NO

WiFi devices.

The first time an electronic item is found on a student, it will be confiscated for a minimum of 2 working weeks

A second infraction will result in the item being confiscated for 8 working weeks NOTE: ANY STUDENT WITH A DEVICE INFRACTION RECORDED ANY TIME IN THE PREVIOUS YEAR,WILL AUTOMATICALLY START ON THE 2ND INFRACTION PENALTY

A third infraction, the school will hold the device until end of school year (June)

III. Mobile Phone Policy and Procedures Policy: Kuwait Ministry of Education regulations ban the use and possession of Mobile Phones

or communication devices by students at school. To ensure compliance with this regulation Ajial Bilingual School is banning the possession of mobile phones/communication devices by students at the school during the school day. To ensure compliance students should not bring a mobile phone with them to school.


Ajial Bilingual School will provide a secure storage area for confiscated Mobile Phones. Ajial

Bilingual School and its staff will not be held accountable for any loss or damage of Mobile

Phones confiscated during the school year.

IV. Deliveries

Ajial Bilingual School will not accept any deliveries to the school, for any

student, without permission from the department principal or the department vice

principal, for any reason. This includes, but is not limited to, meals/food,

homework, textbooks, projects, locker keys, etc. The only exceptions are

eyeglasses, proper uniform pieces, and medication.

Students who have food delivered to school without permission will have the

food confiscated, and the food will not be returned to the student.

V. Emergency Procedures The school has emergency procedures in place. All staff are aware of these and practices are

held to help ensure students’ safety.

VI. Textbooks All required textbooks and novels are supplied to students on a loan basis from the school.

Students will be required to pay for any lost or damaged textbooks. A book will be

considered damaged if it has been written in, ripped pages or otherwise vandalized. School

records will not be released until all financial obligations to the school are met.

VII. Gymnasium Rules The gymnasium is an extension of Ajial and the rules that apply in school also apply while

students are on the playground. Students are supposed to obey the following rules on the

playground:

Should be kind and friendly to others

Should not touch or push each other

Should play safely and be in the playground only when expected according to their school

schedule.

Play fairly and include others

NO FOOD OR DRINK ALLOWED IN GYM

At 6:30 a.m., supervision starts with teachers and assistants assigned supervisory

responsibilities on the playground.

If a situation does occur, students are expected to report the incident immediately to the

playground supervisor / teacher.


During recess, teachers or teachers’ assistants supervise students.

Rules are reviewed with all classes on a periodic basis. If infractions occur, the on-duty

supervisor will dialogue with the students and depending on the situation, the following

possible actions may be taken.

Discipline during recess:

Missed recess in collaboration with the classroom teacher.

Referral to appropriate Counselor

Referral to respective School administration to conduct a meeting with Parents.

VIII. Elevator Use Students are not allowed to use elevators in the school, unless holding an elevator pass

issued by the Doctr’s Office after screened approval of the Ministry of Health

Committee and the School.

P.E. and SWIMMING

Students

P.E. and Swimming lessons are an integral part of the school program. Swimming is a

significant part of the educational program and due to its nature in terms of changing and

safety requirements, it is given special mention in this handbook.

Only students who have obtained a medical excuse will be excused and will not be graded for

the swimming classes. Additionally, the school Doctor will collate a list of students with

medical problems and are exempt from swimming. The teacher assistant will escort all

students to the swimming pool area. The non-swimmers will be taken back to their classroom

and supervised by the teacher assistant.

All teachers are requested to familiarize themselves with the “Pool and P.E. Regulations”

from the P.E. Teaching Staff to ensure that all safety precautions are maintained for the safety

of the students in the pool area.

Ajial Swimming Pool Rules and Regulations

Please be aware of the following:

The lifeguard must be present during the swimming lesson. The swimming lesson is to be

cancelled in the case of the absence of the lifeguard. Any person not following the swimming

teacher or lifeguard’s rules indicated below will lose pool privileges which may impact

swimming grades.

• No running.

• No pushing.


• No diving.

• No swimming after a heavy meal.

• No food is allowed in or around the pool area.

• No toiletries (soap, shampoo, etc.) are allowed in the swimming pool.

• All swimmers must use the toilet before entering the pool area.

• All swimmers must take a shower before entering the pool area.

• Only designated swimming aids may be used in the swimming pool to facilitate the objective of the lesson.

• No outdoor shoes are allowed on the pool deck.

• Proper swimming attire is to be worn at all times, including a full swimming suit, slippers, swim cap, goggles and floaties for non-swimmers. Regular clothing is not permitted in the swimming pool – no exceptions.

• Inexperienced students (Non-swimmers) must stay in the shallow end.

• Pool equipment must only be used for its intended purpose.

• No jewelry.

• No oils or lotions on the skin or hair.

• Students with any type of infections, especially a verruca, must not attend the swimming lesson.

Playgrounds Rules Playground is an extension of Ajial and the rules that apply in school also apply while students are on the playground. Students are supposed to obey the following rules on the playground:

• Should be kind and friendly to others

• Should not touch or push each other

• Should play safely and be in the playground only when expected according to their school schedule.

• Play fairly and include others

• At 7:00 a.m., supervision starts with teachers and assistants assigned supervisory responsibilities on the playground.

• If a situation does occur, students are expected to report the incident immediately to the playground supervisor / teacher.

• During recess, teachers or teachers’ assistants supervise students.


• Rules are reviewed with all classes on a periodic basis. If infractions occur, the on-duty supervisor will dialogue with the students and depending on the situation, the following possible actions may be taken:

1. Time-out for several minutes during the recess.

2. Missed recess in collaboration with the classroom teacher.

3. Referral to appropriate Counselor.

4. Referral to respective School authority to conduct meeting with Parents.

• Chocolate, chips, candy, gum and soft drinks are NOT allowed. Teachers may confiscate these items from the student when sent to school.

• Parents are encouraged to send enough food with students that could last for the whole day.

Student safety outside school (family violence) If a student is exposed to violence outside the school, caused injuries or hurt the emotional

psychological wellbeing of the student, the school will take the necessary action for the

student safety, and the competent authorities will be contacted.

Student Behavioral Expectations and Discipline Students are under the authority of the school when on campus, at any school-sponsored

activity and while traveling on school transportation.

Ajial has 6 Behavioral Expectations that students are guided by. These are:

We treat ourselves and other people respectfully.

We take care of the precious gifts God has given us.

We are good listeners and speak politely.

We are honest.

We are responsible.

We keep our hands and feet to ourselves.

The Behavioral Expectation Policy is not a classroom management plan.

This Behavioral Expectation Policy will be implemented to ensure the fair treatment of

students and help create a safe and orderly campus.

Bullying Bullying can be defined as repeated verbal, physical or psychological intimidation that

creates a pattern of abuse and harassment over time. It is any act that generates a climate in

which students and/or teachers feel fear or intimidation. There are three characteristics that

generally describe bullying behavior: it is deliberate, it is repeated over time, and it is


intended to harm another person. A common element in bullying is a perceived imbalance of

power, which allows one student or groups of students to victimize others.

Bullying can be classified into three categories: verbal, physical, and psychological.

Physical bullying involves hurting the body of another person or damaging property.

Verbal bullying involves using words to hurt the feelings of others through taunts, name-

calling, humiliation, and racist or sexist remarks.

Psychological bullying involves isolating, rejecting, excluding and blackmailing others

through direct contact or using technology.

Cyberbullying is a form of psychological bullying that utilizes technology such as e-mail,

blogs, texting, social networking sites and chat sites.

If bullying is suspected or reported, the incident will be dealt with immediately by a member

of the administration. The incident will be recorded, and parents will be informed.

Damage to Property

If a student damages the school property, parents will be required to pay for it. And

the student will be suspended for a period not to exceed three days. Depending on the

specific situation, more serious consequences may be given, at the discretion of the

administration and the parent should obligate that will not repeat again.

Computer / Internet Use All students must sign the computer Ethical Use Form. (Appendix at back of book)

Students using the Internet must not access material that violates commonly accepted

standards of decency in Kuwait. No improper language or image may be displayed or printed.

Being involved in a situation in which these requirements are not followed will result in loss

of Internet use at Ajial and disciplinary action by the teacher and/or administration.

Ultimately of course, students are responsible for their actions.

It is hoped that a combination of teacher and parental involvement will eliminate any

potential problems. With guidance, we expect that our students will make the proper choices.

Students who violate the Ajial school network through the use of hacking or intrusive

software will face severe disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.

In addition, students are not to alter any computer settings. Also, students are expected to

follow appropriate copyright laws and never use the computer to reproduce any work which

is not their own.


Student Behavioral Expectations and Discipline Students are under the authority of the school when on campus, at any school sponsored

activity and while traveling to and from school on school transportation.

The Behavioral Expectation Policy is not a classroom management plan.

This Behavioral Expectation Policy will be implemented to ensure the fair treatment of

students and help create a safe and orderly campus.

Discipline Guidelines Progressive Infraction Levels

Level Infraction Disciplinary Responses

Level 1

Uncooperative/ Noncompliant

Behavior

Not following basic classroom rules Failing to wear the required school uniform Bringing prohibited items without

authorization Behaving in a manner which disrupts the

educational process (e.g., making excessive noise in the classroom, constant talking, and getting out of seat)

Engaging in verbally rude or disrespectful behavior

Being reprimanded by the teacher Student-teacher conference The school will call the parent for

meeting Parent-Teacher conference in the

school Parent must sign a pledge of non-

repetition Disciplinary action (no-recess/

exclusion from extracurricular activities)

Level 2

Disorderly Behavior

Using profane or vulgar language, gestures, or behavior

Lying and giving false information Engaging in inappropriate or unwanted

physical contact Cheating

Can be one of the disciplinary responses from Level 1 but can include a “Time Out” by the teacher.

Level 3

Disruptive Behavior

Defying school personnel Using racial, ethnic, or religious slurs Stealing Engaging in a physical altercation Engaging in vandalism and destruction of

school or personal property

Can be one of the disciplinary responses from Level 1 and 2, but can include a Principal’s suspension of 1-3 days. The parent will pay for what is destroyed and sign a pledge of non-repetition.

Hitting other student either by hand or object

First offense

Suspension for 1 day and the V.P. must inform parent. Should the offense be deemed severe the V.P. may give a stronger consequence according to the discipline guidelines.

Second offense

3 days suspension, parent must sign a behavior contract with the counselor and the V.P. Should the offense be deemed severe the V.P. may give a stronger consequence according to the discipline guidelines.

Third offense

The Principal will suspend the student for one week and the student may not be permitted to re-enroll for the next school year. Should the offense be deemed severe a stronger consequence with approval of the director, the student may be exited from the school.

Any classwork missed because of suspension will result in a grade of “O” zero.


Bringing Unauthorized Toys to School Toys unless authorized by a school official are not allowed in school. This is especially so

for toy guns. They do not have any place in the educational process. Please check your

children’s bags frequently and do not allow them to leave the house with any such toys. This

is a disruption to the school day.

Programs and Services

Orientation/ Open House

An Open House is the school’s welcoming to the upcoming school year and will take place

within the first few weeks of school. Parents are welcome to tour the school and facilities.

Within the first month of school there will in a Middle/High School Orientation afternoon.

The main purpose of the event is to advise parents and students about the school systems and

routines. Teachers will be in classrooms to explain what is taught at each grade level,

classroom expectations and have textbooks on display.

Parents and students are able to visit the school premises and meet their teachers. These dates

will be published in the school calendar.

Tutoring / Academic Support Club

Ajial expects all students to meet grade level standards. The teachers and counselors work

hard with students to provide academic services and enhancement programs.

Any academic support needs are addressed through the respective school department

counselor, as per school rules and regulations.

Parents seeking additional academic support may contact the school at any time for advice.

The school provides a number of after school tutoring options and the Activities coordinator

may be contacted for information.

Counseling Department

Elementary school counselors help every student improve academic achievement, personal

and social development. Elementary school counselors in the 21st century are highly trained

educators who uphold ethical and professional standards to design implement and manage

comprehensive, developmental, results-based school counseling programs that promote and

enhance student success.

Elementary school counselors address the academic and developmental needs of all students,

not just those in need, by collaborating with students, parents, school staff and the

community.

Elementary school counselors design, implement, and maintain guidance programs that align

with the educational mission and philosophies of their school. These programs help every

student develop competencies in academic achievement, personal and social development,

and career planning.


Students who encounter academic difficulty will meet with the counselor on a regular basis to

correct the concern. Parents may ask to see a counselor at any time to gain assistance with

providing help for a student.

Elementary school counselors follow a comprehensive guidance curriculum to work with

students in individual, small group and classroom settings. Elementary school counselors

help students create an academic plan for their education to prepare for successful transition

to Middle school and help students develop the necessary skills, such as organizational, time

management, and study skills. They also help students overcome obstacles that may form

barriers to learning by helping students respond to issues such as divorce or death in their

family, as well as developmental issues typical in childhood and early adolescence.

Grades Student Progress will be evaluated continuously. Overall grading of students will be based

upon:

• Classroom Participation

• Class Work

• Following instructions and staying on task

• Projects

• Tests

• Quizzes

• Exams

• Homework

• Portfolios (as developed within the classroom)

Evaluation of Students’ Progress Evaluation of student progress by members of the faculty is a continuous process. Teachers

evaluating student achievement consider homework assignments and classroom participation,

together with test, quiz, and project scores. Teachers observe performance in the classroom

daily. When students miss classes, waste time during the class period, or are disruptive,

learning opportunities are lost. Teachers consider these things when assigning grades to

document student progress.

Homework Elementary School (Grade 1-5)

The purpose of homework assignments is to help the student meet the required short-term and

long-term objectives of the respective grade level. Homework is an essential and integral

element of student success at every grade level. Homework may be assigned on a daily basis.


Teachers ensure that the concepts and skills have been taught in class. Thus, students should

be able to complete the homework assignment independently.

The following table indicates the approximate maximum time that the student should dedicate

to homework (English and Arabic) completion on a daily basis.

Grade 1 50 min

Grade 2 60 min

Grade 3, 4, 5 70 min

All Elementary students need to practice reading daily to improve their reading fluency,

enhance their vocabulary and language skills, and build their confidence. Students who are

not at grade level may need more time to review and study at home.

Each school department will establish a homework schedule to help avoid too much

homework being set on any one evening. The table above indicates the approximate amount

of time per day for homework.

Note: Continued issues regarding student inability or refusal to do homework in the Grades

1-5 classrooms will be referred to the school department Counselor for assistance.

Grading Standards-based grading measures students’ mastery of essential standards. At the beginning

of every unit, teachers will break down the standards for the unit into smaller objectives and

criteria using a detailed rubric. During the unit, the student is assessed to see if they truly

know the material using a variety of assessments. The class grade will be based on all of the

evidence the teacher collects demonstrating mastery of the essential standards.

Standards-based grading does not separate out tests, homework, or projects. All of the work a

student does is used to assess the student’s mastery of the essential standards. A student’s

scores from their work are tracked by the essential standards, which give the teacher, student,

and parents a very detailed picture of which standards a student has mastered.

The goal of Ajial Bilingual School is to report grades that are accurate, consistent,

meaningful, and supportive of learning, and the change to standards-based grading is an

effort to reach that goal.

Grading Guidelines Students need to achieve a minimum overall course score of 2 to pass a class. All final course

grades must be based on the values attached to class participation, homework, examinations

and projects. All scores for these categories must be documented in a teacher’s grade book

with easily identifiable values and dates of completion designating each categorized score.

Listed below is the scale for how grades are derived:


Elementary Grading Scale

Type Examples Percentage

Assessments Tests, quizzes, and essays 50%

Class work Labs, in class assignments, essays and participate 40%

Homework Extension of class work, enrichments, and practice 10%

Prohibition of Punitive Practices in Grading Students’ grades (with the exception of Character Education) will solely be based on their

academic performance in meeting grade level standards. Behavior will not be factored into a

student's grades unless their behavior causes them to miss assignments, classwork and

assessments. Students who are frequently absent or leave early during the school day will

notice a reduction in their grades as the result of missed work and participation marks.

Students submitting late assignments who do not fall under an excused absence will have

points or grades deducted. Students with excused absences will have an opportunity to make

up missed classwork, homework and assessments. Teachers will make appropriate referrals

to deal with student disciplinary and attendance issues appropriate referrals to deal with a

student disciplinary and attendance issues. Students submitting late assignments who do not

fall under an excused absence will have points or a grade deducted.

Academic Standards Ajial Bilingual School utilizes The American Common Core State Standards. These

standards are a set of high-quality academic standards in mathematics, English language arts,

and literacy. They outline what a student should know and be able to do at the end of each

grade. The standards were created to ensure that all students progress through each grade

with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the subsequent grades, college, career,

and life.

The Common Core standards define the knowledge and skills students should gain

throughout their K-12 education. Throughout the English language arts and mathematics

standards, skills critical to each content area are emphasized. In particular, problem-solving,

collaboration, communication, and critical-thinking skills are interwoven into the standards.

Standardized Tests The counseling office and curriculum coordinator schedules and administers several

examinations during the school year. All test results are kept in the counseling office records

for school use. Standardized tests are used for measuring student academic development and

for guiding the Academic Committee with curriculum development.


Measures of Academic Progress Examinations (MAP) The Measures of Academic Progress assessments are designed to measure how well students

acquire the skills and knowledge of the American Common Core Standards. The information

from this assessment is used to identify individual student strengths and weaknesses as well

as progress toward grade level standards. Students in grades 1-5 take MAPs assessments in

reading, language, and mathematics. This computer- adaptive assessment is given three times

a year (fall, winter, spring).

School Clinic A registered school doctor, along with two nurses, is available at school throughout the school day. Matters pertaining to student health should be directed to medical staff.

The clinic provides first aid services and emergency care for sick or injured students.

Student Medical Records

A legible, complete, comprehensive, and accurate student medical record must be maintained for each student as required by Kuwaiti Law and school procedures.

The school clinic gives immunizations required by the School Health Department with permission

from the parents. Medicines are administered to students only with written permission from the parents. Any prescription medication required by a student during school hours should be registered with the nurse.

For the parents:

Please be sure to notify the school doctor about any health problems For example:

Chronic health problems like heart cases, asthma, and diabetes. Medication taken daily at home Allergies Food allergies

The school doctor should be aware of any changes in your child's health during the year, for his/her safety and well-being.

Students must obtain a pass from their teachers before reporting to the school clinic; students must

also report to their classrooms before and after their visit.

STUDENTS WILL BE SENT home in cases that involve:

1. Fever

2. Vomiting and /or diarrhea. 3. Undiagnosed rash 4. Severe cough and / or nasal discharge (upper respiratory tract infection). 5. Have pediculosis (Lice) 6. Pink eye - Conjunctivitis.

7. Have any communicable disease like flu, German measles.


8. Are obviously ill 9. Injury

Note: In case, any of the aforementioned symptoms occur, parents will be informed only by the school clinic.

Illness/Medications:

Children who have a fever, diarrhea, vomiting, or a contagious disease such as measles, chicken pox, strep throat, head lice or conjunctivitis MUST remain at home. Your child must have been fever-free

without medication for 24 hours before returning back to school.

Medication Policy

1- The clinic is responsible for the receipt, storage and administration of medications for students attending school

2-The school clinic will administer non prescribed drugs (e.g. Adol) as allowed by the school health department.

3- Self-medication by the children is not allowed.

4-Teaching staff are not authorized to give medication during the school hours.

5-For the students' safety it is not allowed for the parents to send the medicine with the students or put it in their bags. This is the parents' responsibility to submit the medicine to the clinic at the beginning of the school day with a written note including the following:

The student's name Class Dose of the medicine Time of the medicine

Parents must take the medicine from the clinic at the end of the day.

Medications are to be in the original container, package, or prescription bottle.

Healthy Eating and Food Nutritious food helps students develop lifelong healthy eating habits. It also contributes to a

culture of wellness at school, reinforcing nutrition education messages from teachers. Healthy

food can also increase school connectedness and reinforce to children, families and

community that students’ health and well-being are valued. Healthy meals support schools’ core mission of education, especially when it comes to boosting students’ concentration,

focus and cognitive function. Improved nutrition in schools leads to increased focus and

attention, improved test scores and better classroom behavior.

Birthday Parties and Bringing Cakes and Other Food Items Unsanctioned celebrations and parties is a disruption to the educational process and are not

allowed. Cakes and other food items are not allowed at any time.


STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Student After-School Clubs

Ajial offers after school activities in an attempt to help students develop physically, socially,

emotionally and academically.

The type of activities offered are:

field trips (recreational and educational)

Sports (soccer, basketball, swimming, karate, etc…) Tutoring, Homework and other specific academic clubs.

Clubs

These activities are optional and may involve a small fee.

School Annual Events

There are annual events calendared at Ajial, such as the International Day. Action plans for

these events and information letters are sent home in advance of the day. These educational

school activities and fun days are only for Ajial students and parents.

Field Trips

Field trips are an important part of an authentic, hands-on curriculum.

• All planned field trips enrich the academic and cultural experience of our students and are

related to the curriculum taught in each grade level.

• Any student who does not have written parental permission cannot attend a field trip. S/he

will be placed in a suitable class for the day and will remain at school under the supervision

of other teachers.

• Parents must give written consent for their child to attend a school field trip.

STUDENT RECOGNITION

Special Recognition Assemblies

Special recognition assemblies may be held throughout the year. The purpose of these

assemblies is to recognize those students who are making exceptional contributions to the

school or community.

Special Awards

“Quran

Memorization

Award”

This is an annual contest that takes place under the patronage of Mr. Talal Al Jeri, Ajial National Educational Company’s CEO.

Gr 1-5


Academic Probation

Any student who receives a score of 1 in two of the core academic subjects of English

language arts, mathematics, or Arabic for the first semester will be placed on academic

probation. If a student is placed on academic probation at any time the school administration

will send a letter home informing the parents. The guidance counselor will set an official

meeting between the teachers, counselor, and assistant principal. In this meeting an action

plan, geared towards the weaknesses of the student, will be decided jointly by the counselor,

assistant principal, teachers and parents. Depending on the grade level the student may also

be included.

At Risk/Academic Warning

Any student who receives a score of 2 in any of the core academic subjects of English

language arts, mathematics, or Arabic will be considered at risk in quarters 1, 2, or 3.If a

student is at risk, the school administration will send a letter home informing the parents.

The homeroom teacher will set up a meeting with the parent to discuss the academic

weaknesses and design a plan to promote academic progress.

Academic Hold

A student who receives a score of one [1] in two of the core academic subjects [English

language arts, mathematics, Arabic], on their semester 1 report, will be placed on Academic

Hold. The administration will meet with the parents of the affected students to inform them

of the Hold, and together devise an approach for future academic success. Students who are

placed on Academic Hold will not be able to re-register until their grades have shown an

acceptable level of improvement. This must be accomplished by the end of March. Students

who do not achieve the minimum acceptable standard will remain on Academic Hold, and

subsequently be placed on the school’s Exit List.

Behavioral Hold

A student who consistently violates the school’s discipline policy, resulting in suspension[s],

will be placed on a Behavioral Hold and will not be able to re-register until they have

demonstrated an improved level of behavior, to an acceptable level on a consistent basis. A

student who does not improve by the end of March will remain on the Behavioral Hold, and

ultimately be placed on the school’s Exit List.

Exit List

Students who have not progressed academically or behaviorally by the end of March by

receiving grades of 1 in two core academic subjects or have numerous disciplinary infractions

will be placed on the school’s exit list after being placed on academic or behavioral hold.